Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: RYA Certification • Ground Tackle • Stand-on Vessel

Bearing

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

A bearing is a basic but essential directional measurement used in sailing and navigation. It describes the direction from one point to another, usually measured in degrees from North (like on a compass). When someone talks about "bearings" in sailing instruction, they're referring to the ability to determine and communicate directions on the water. This is similar to giving directions on land, but uses specific numbers (degrees) instead of "left" or "right." Understanding bearings is fundamental for any sailing instructor or maritime professional, just like understanding a road map is essential for a driving instructor.

Examples in Resumes

Taught students to take and plot Bearing measurements during coastal navigation courses

Created lesson plans for teaching Bearings to beginner sailing students

Certified in advanced Bearing calculation and position fixing techniques

Typical job title: "Sailing Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Navigation Instructor Maritime Educator Boating Instructor Sailing Coach Water Sports Instructor Maritime Training Officer Nautical Instructor

Where to Find Sailing Instructors

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you design a comprehensive course to teach bearings to a group of complete beginners?

Expected Answer: A senior instructor should discuss creating progressive lesson plans, starting with basic compass reading, moving to taking bearings of visible objects, and advancing to navigation plotting. They should mention hands-on practice methods and common student difficulties.

Q: How do you integrate modern navigation technology with traditional bearing taking?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to balance teaching traditional bearing methods with modern GPS and electronic navigation, emphasizing the importance of understanding both approaches for safety and comprehensive seamanship.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to teach bearing calculation in poor visibility?

Expected Answer: Should describe alternative methods for taking bearings when visibility is limited, including using sound signals, radar, and other navigation tools, and how to teach these techniques effectively.

Q: How do you explain the difference between true and magnetic bearings to students?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms, using practical examples and real-world scenarios to help students understand the difference.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic process of taking a bearing?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the fundamental steps of taking a bearing using a compass, including proper positioning, reading the compass, and basic recording techniques.

Q: What safety considerations do you teach when having students practice taking bearings?

Expected Answer: Should discuss basic safety protocols like maintaining awareness while using compass, proper boat handling during bearing taking, and importance of double-checking readings.